Applying Web-Enabled Problem-Based Learning and Self-Regulated Learning to Enhance Computing Skills of Taiwan`s Vocational Students: A Quasi-Experimental Study of a Short-Term Module

Abstract

Contrary to conventional expectations, the reality of computing education in Taiwan`s vocational schools is not so practically oriented, and thus reveals much room for improvement. In this context, we conducted a quasi-experiment to examine the effects of applying web-based problem-based learning (PBL), web-based self-regulated learning (SRL), and their combination to enhance students` computing skills in a short-term module of deploying Microsoft Word. Two classes of 106 first-year students were divided into 2 (PBL vs. non-PBL) X 2 (SRL vs. non-SRL) experimental groups. Results were generally positive. This study thus provided a significant illustration of a promising design and implementation of chosen web-based pedagogies for a short-term module. With limitations in mind, we hope that the lesson learned is also useful for those teachers engaged in e-learning, specifically, in vocational schools.